August 21, 2012

Almond croissant

Too often, almond croissants can be crushingly disappointing... Far too sweet, way too much almond paste, and not enough crisp to the exterior (these are baked a second time for a reason). Great almond croissants are about simplicity and restraint. Here is a fantastic version from Proof Bakery in Atwater Village down in L.A., one of the better almond croissants I can remember. Just the right amount of almond paste for an aura of sweet almond flavor. Just enough time back in the oven so that your first bite sends a little cascade of croissant shards all over the table. And finished with an appropriate dusting (rather than dumping) of powdered sugar. Perfect with a cup of Cognoscenti coffee.